Evidence supporting the use of: Nettle (mixed)
For the health condition: Bites and Stings

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Nettle (Urtica dioica), particularly in mixed formulations, has a long-standing history of traditional use for the relief of bites and stings. Traditionally, nettle leaves have been applied topically to the skin as a folk remedy for insect bites, bee stings, and even nettle stings themselves. The rationale in folk medicine often centers on nettle’s purported anti-inflammatory and counter-irritant properties, as well as its ability to promote circulation and relieve pain and itching. Some traditional herbal preparations also combine nettle with other soothing herbs, such as plantain or calendula, to maximize relief.

However, scientific validation for the use of nettle in treating bites and stings is limited. While nettle contains compounds such as histamine, acetylcholine, and formic acid, which actually cause a stinging sensation, some studies suggest that processed or cooked nettle, or extracts, may have anti-inflammatory effects. These effects could theoretically help reduce swelling or itching from bites and stings when used appropriately. Nonetheless, there is a lack of robust clinical trials directly evaluating nettle’s efficacy for this specific purpose.

In summary, the use of nettle for bites and stings is primarily rooted in traditional herbal medicine practices, with only limited and indirect scientific support for its efficacy. Users should be cautious and aware that some people may experience skin irritation from nettle preparations.

More about Nettle (mixed)
More about Bites and Stings

Other ingredients used for Bites and Stings

aloe vera
basil
beta caryophyllene
beta-pinene
betel
bisabolol
black cumin
black walnut
bасора
chamomile
citrus oil
turmeric
curcumin
echinacea purpurea
goldenseal
green tea
hemp oil
horseradish
honeysuckle
lavender
mustard seed
oregano
phenolic acids
plantain
rosemary
sage
schizonepeta
sphaeranthus indicus
thyme
vitamin C
vitamin E
zinc
bentonite
chickweed
xanthium (cockleburs)
papaya
shen-chu
mugwort
neem tree
nut grass
clerodendrum indicum
paederia foetida
blackboard tree
boxthorne
buckthorn
lemongrass
siler root
fern
zanthoxylum
eucalyptus
wintergreen
camphor oil
menthol oil
paw paw
herbal blend (proprietary)
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
arnica
Ash
Avens
Asclepias cordifolia
Angel's Trumpet
Ardisia
Angelica
Achyranthes
Anamu
Abrus
Alchornea
Aconite
Adrenergic amines
American Liverleaf
Aquilegia formosa
Alsonia scholaris
Asteracea
Abuta
Amor seco
Arani
Arisaema
Bee Propolis
Babchi
Baphicacanthus cusia
Bidens pilosa
Black-Eyed Susan
Balsam
Bishop's Weed
Barleria
Bitter Grass
Brazillian peppertree
Bisabolene
Baccharoides anthelmintica
Bee products
Black Nightshade
Black root
Borneol
Calendula
Calotropis gigantea
Colloidal Silver
Capillary Artemisia
Cinquefoil
Cajuput
Chinese Raisintree
Cowherb
Curcumen
Cedar
Centipeda
Castile Soap
Cocklebur
Copaiba Oil
Citronella
Devil's Club
Dichrostachys glomerata
European Elder
Erodium cicutarium
Eclipta
Echinacea
Emu Oil
Essential Oil Blend
Eupatorium
Euphorbia
European-Five Finger Grass
Eugenol
Fomes fomentarius
Fang-Feng
Ficus religiosa
Fleabane
Fir
Gnaphalium
gamma-terpinene
Giant Blazingstar
Glechoma hederacea
Gallotannin
Mustard
Spikenard
Vervain

Products containing Nettle (mixed)

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.